Rookies that want to play well on their NBA debuts are one thing. But only very few can make a historic debut like this year’s number one draft pick. In fact, Paolo Banchero has become the first player since LeBron James to achieve a unique feat. The Orlando Magic rookie has undoubtedly made his team proud. The rookie was a force to reckon with in the game, and his debut has left everyone talking.
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He didn’t leave anything to chance. His energy was palpable. Paolo Banchero had a memorable debut, including his first NBA poster dunk.
Banchero seemingly did not have any trappings of a rookie. He played like a senior. Paolo Banchero knew exactly where the ball was and dominated the court. With scoring 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, Banchero has truly made a name for himself from his very first game in the NBA.
In NBA history, only two other players in their debut showcased such stellar performances. Banchero is in great company with Los Angeles Lakers Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James as the only players to register more than 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists on their NBA debut.
Banchero emulates Lebron James on NBA debut
Fans are excited to see more from this promising young player. They will be expecting more great performances from him throughout the season.
Here are some of the reactions from NBA Twitter:
https://twitter.com/donndollass/status/1582916417988399104?s=20&t=KC_7nfBVEPAPF4Dn_r3diQ
bookmarking this to see if he’ll be in the running for #1 all time scorer in 20 years https://t.co/GrSjWWI3O4
— ♕𝕕𝕒𝕧𝕠𓅓 (@shpillo_) October 20, 2022
https://twitter.com/lifeoftarantino/status/1582970370889756673?s=20&t=oImc_mShliY_38LblawSJw
Generational. https://t.co/5NOeoOEwBu
— Tyrone 🌹 (@_Tyrone___) October 20, 2022
Goat company https://t.co/mCeVdhAFIh
— CFriii (@c_friii) October 20, 2022
Apart from the 25+/5+/5+ feat, Banchero has found himself with another august group of players who have recorded history. LeBron James, Grant Hill, Willie Anderson, and Ron Harper had grand NBA debuts as well.
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Banchero’s mom was also a professional basketball player, having been inducted into the Hall of Fame herself. Apart from the genes, he also built a body that supported both basketball and American football. It was evident that he had benefitted much from the sport and the training.
NBA fans are eager to watch Banchero contribute more to the league with his potential of becoming one of the greats of the sport.
Watch This Story: Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, Jabari Smith Jr, And Other Top Rookie Prospects for NBA Draft 2022
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Even though the Orlando Magic lost to the Detroit Pistons, the focus was on Banchero. Undoubtedly, he stole the show. It was the Magic rookie that seemed to have the magic touch.
Do you think Paolo Banchero will have a great season ahead? Let us know in the comments below.